Ophthalmology

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Ophthalmology

Our Ophthalmology service is here to provide Specialist expertise and experience in dealing with equine eye disease. European and RCVS Specialists in Veterinary Ophthalmology, Claudia Hartley and David Donaldson have extensive experience with equine ophthalmology thanks to a combined 25 years working at the Animal Health Trust in Newmarket, and working with world-renowned mentors Dr Keith Barnett and Jane Sansom.

In order to be a specialist in ophthalmology, a vet must have undertaken a rigorous 3-year training programme under the guidance of a board certified specialist at an accredited institution. Before they can enter this programme they must have a minimum one-year internship or two years as a GP in first opinion veterinary practice under their belt. Training positions are extremely competitive to attain. The trainee must also have published scientific research in the field of ophthalmology, and then successfully pass both theoretical and practical examinations to be called a Specialist and recognised by the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons. This means that a specialist vet will be the most highly qualified in that subject and have reached the expected high standard of technical ability and knowledge. This is the veterinary equivalent of a Consultant at a human hospital.

Our state of the art facilities for investigating and treating ophthalmic disease in the horse, include a dedicated ophthalmic examination room, hospitalisation facilities and 24/7 staffing, ultrasound and computed tomography (CT), standing surgery facilities, and a general anaesthesia surgical suite of theatres. The Equine Referral Hospital team also has specialists in equine Diagnostic Imaging, Internal Medicine, and Surgery, as well as Specialist Anaesthetists, who all work together to provide exceptional care and the best possible outcome for your horse.